We had an absolutely wonderful day with our guide, James. We chose a private tour because we wanted to see the Lake District at our own pace, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made on our trip. James was friendly, knowledgeable, and easy to spend the day with. He shared so much about the history of the area, local traditions, and everyday life in the Lake District, but it never felt like a lecture. It was more like exploring with someone who genuinely loves where he lives and enjoys sharing it with visitors. He also knew exactly where to stop for the best views and took us to places we never would have found on our own. We appreciated that he was happy to adjust the day based on what interested us and never made us feel rushed. What stood out most was how enjoyable the entire experience was. We laughed, learned a lot, and came away feeling like we had really gotten to know the Lake District instead of just checking off the major sights. James is also an extraordinary photographer and knew exactly where to find the most beautiful views. We’ve taken private tours in many places over the years, and this was definitely one of our favorites. If you’re thinking about booking a tour with James in the Lake District, don’t hesitate. It was worth every penny and it was a highlight of our trip.
Choose a currency
Private tour in Lake District James R
Highlights of Cumbria & the English Lake District
5.0
(30) reviews
-
8 hours
1
Tour date
-
8 hours
1
James R.
5.0
Guide rating
38
Reviews
Tours delivered
7 hrs
Avg. response time
Photographer, author, public speaker, mountaineer, naturalist (not to be confused with naturist), travel writer, tea & cake lover. Originally from the UK, I spent 10 years living in the Italian Dolomites and Iceland, writing travel guidebooks on photography, climbing, ski mountaineering and walking. After a transient decade, I've now settled down in the English Lake District – a stunning area that I feel privileged to call 'home'. I'm a keen photographer and was lucky enough to be named the British Drone Photographer of the Year and GTMA Global Travel Award winner in 2020, the British Guild of Travel Writers Photographer of the Year every year from 2018 until 2024, a double category winner at the International Photography Awards in 2018, and Epson Digital Splash Photographer of the Year, also in 2018. My work has been exhibited at several high-profile venues including London Bridge, the National Maritime Museum and Edinburgh Waverley train station - whilst on social media I am part of the National Geographic YourShot photography team. To share this enthusiasm for photography and the outdoors with like-minded individuals, the last few years have been spent leading workshops and expeditions to Iceland, Greenland, Romania, Italy, the Faroe Islands and English Lake District. All my trips are designed to be accessible to all - irrespective of age, experience or mobility. Groups of up to three can be driven in my Ford Kuga, whilst for larger groups I can hire a larger vehicle, accommodating up to six adults. All transport is included in my trips at no extra cost. Please note that non-photographers are very welcome and I enjoy leading cultural, sightseeing, walking, driving, culinary and fine dining trips every bit as much as those with a photographic focus. For those who would like to learn a little bit more about their camera, we can cover: Composition Camera skills Long exposures Off-camera lighting and flash Astrophotography Image cataloguing Post-processing Soft proofing Printing My personal interests include ancient and architectural history, cooking (with varying degrees of success), rock climbing, skiing, travel & culture. I enjoy meeting people from different parts of the world (everyone has an interesting story), sharing knowledge and experiences. Preserving natural history and supporting wilderness areas are critical and I am a member of the National Trust, English Heritage, Cumbria Wildlife Trust and RSPB. Bespoke itineraries are available upon request - click the gallery link for example photos from around the world. Please do get in touch if you have any questions. Wishing you happy travels and good light. James Author of 'Photographing Iceland' - Winner of the Best Indie Book Awards (BIPA) 2022 Author of 'Photographing the Dolomites' Author of 'The Dolomites - Rock Climbs and Via Ferrata' (Banff Mountain Book Festival finalist) Author of 'Ski Touring & Snowshoeing in the Dolomites' (Banff Mountain Book Festival finalist) Landscape Photographer of the Year (LPOTY) - Historic Britain Category - Runner up (2021) British Guild of Travel Writers Photographer of the Year (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024) GTMA Travel Photographer of the Year (2020) Double Category Winner at the International Photography Awards (2018) Digital Splash Awards - Photographer of the Year & Double Category Winner (2018)
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message James R.
Explore the very best locations & views of the Lake District – All transport included
Overview of your Lake District tour
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, the Lake District National Park boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, containing a picturesque collection of traditional villages, dry stone walls, ancient woodland and tranquil lakes - all presided over by the largest mountain fells in England. Famously the home of writer and conservationist Beatrix Potter, the muse of William Wordsworth and stomping grounds of Alfred Wainwright, the area has long inspired locals and visitors alike. This tour of between one and five days aims to provide a broad overview of this magical area, as we traverse the park north to south, then east to west. Located in the heart of the Lakes, the historic market town of Ambleside makes a perfect base for our adventures, giving good access to the surrounding passes and fells. All private transport between the locations (both classic and seldom frequented) is included.
Recent Reviews
James was an outstanding tour guide. We were able to see a good portion of the Lakes District and I learned so much about the area. Thank you for a great day!
If you see that James is available during your trip - book him STAT! Engaging and friendly, he is extremely knowledgeable about the area, history, geography, flora and fauna. He has a built in GPS and navigated those skinny country roads with ease, and could stop at a moment's notice for the best photo opportunities. I highly recommend booking with James, he can customize the tour for as much or as little walking/climbing you desire.
Highly recommend James for tours in and around the Lake District. He is extremely knowledgeable on the geography and history of the area. Also very well traveled around the world so makes for great conversation on the drives.
James was my tour-guide for 2 full days in June 2025 as I explored the Lake District, UK. I was primarily interested in an overview of the region. My only specific requests were to visit the homes of William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. On Day 1 James organized a driving tour that took me through towns and villages, over passes between mountain ranges, and along the lakes of the area. We saw ancient bridges, hiked up trails for sweeping views and walked along lake shores, and visited the only remaining slate mine in the region. Day 2 was largely devoted to visiting the homes of Wordsworth and Potter, along with some additional travel around the area. As we drove, James commented on history (past and present), flora and fauna, lore and legends. Also, he knows the best places for lunch! James is easy company. Knowledgeable and flexible. Consider his services on your next trip.
James was an absolutely wonderful tour guide in all elements. Could not ask for more, seriously. My tour was completely customizable to my desires and he was a good sport about taking lots of photos of me wherever and whenever. Couldn't give a higher recommendation!
Your Lake District tour itinerary
One day tour- Northern Lakes Pickup from Oxenholme Lake District Train Station or Ambleside at a time convenient to you. Drive north through the Central Lakes, stopping to explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle, before ascending Latrigg (by car) to gain a birds-eye perspective over Keswick and the surrounding area. Our journey then continues along the eastern shores of Derwentwater, where we will visit Ashness Bridge, Surprise View and Lodore Falls before ascending the steep pass to Honister. After a brief stop at the slate mines we descend into the picturesque Buttermere valley, with stops at the eponymous lake and several hidden waterfalls, before returning east back towards Keswick along Whinlatter Pass. For those wanting more a multi-day itinerary can be found below: Day 2 West Lakes - Langdale, Tarn How's, Wrynose & Hardknott Passes, Roman Fort, Wast Water. Day 3 East Lakes - Orrest Head, Kirkstone Pass, Aira Force, Ullswater. Day 4 Central Lakes - Windermere, Ambleside, Rydal Mount, Grasmere.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Suv
All transport in my Ford Kuga is included. There is enough space for three adults plus kit. For larger groups I can hire a minibus for an additional fee - please get in touch for more details.
What's included
What's not included
Meeting location
England, England, United Kingdom
Pickup possible from Kendal, Windermere, Bowness, Ambleside, Keswick and any of the nearby Lake District towns.
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Tour reference number
Languages
EnglishActivity level
Accessibility
Traveller reviews
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Lake District National Park best suited for?
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in Lake District National Park be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
8 hours
1
Tour date
-
8 hours
1
Tour date
More tours in Lake District by James R.
Explore more of Lake District
Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a 20% deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- The remaining balance will automatically be charged to your credit card 30 days before your tour date.